A vehicle history report is your quick reality check on a used car. Before a test drive in Burnaby or Surrey, pull it, because a shiny exterior can hide expensive history.
What a vehicle history report actually tells you
A vehicle history report shows past accidents, title status, mileage records, registrations, and liens. Think of it like the car’s paper trail.
The must-check items before you buy
Check ICBC claims history, salvage or rebuilt status, odometer rollbacks, open recalls, and liens. Here’s the thing: a bad report is the used-car version of a cracked foundation.
What Vancouver-area buyers should notice
In Richmond or Coquitlam, watch for flood damage, heavy stop-and-go wear, and out-of-province imports. Clean paint does not mean a clean past.
One smart next step after the report
Match the report with service records and a pre-purchase inspection. Try this first: pull the report before you swap messages about price.
Frequently asked questions
Is a vehicle history report enough on its own?
No. Pair it with records and an inspection.
Can a clean report still hide problems?
Yes. Missed maintenance will not always show up.
Why check for liens?
A lien means money may still be owed on the car.
What does rebuilt status mean?
The car was badly damaged, then repaired and retitled.